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High-Fructose Corn Syrup - The Myth

The idea that high-fructose corn syrup is more harmful to your health than sugar is "one of those urban myths that sounds right but is basically wrong," according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a health advocacy group. The composition of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)is almost identical to table sugar, or sucrose. Calorie-wise, HFCS is the same as regular sugar. Studies show that HFCS and sugar have very similar effects on blood levels of insulin, glucose, triglycerides, and satiety hormones. Essentially, it seems to be no worse, but also no better, than table sugar. The important issue is that we are eating too much of all sorts of sugars, from HFCS and sucrose to honey and molasses. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 100 calories a day in added sugars (6 teaspoons), and men, 150 calories (9 teaspoons). So, enjoy the flavor of your food without adding that extra sugar, no matter what it is called.

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